The IRS has announced that nearly one million people are set to receive stimulus payments they missed out on from 2021, amounting to a total of $2.4 billion. If you’re eligible, you could receive up to $1,400 per person. The distribution process began in late 2024 and will continue into early 2025.
Many of these payments will be delivered through direct deposit or mailed checks. The good news? You don’t need to take any extra steps if the IRS already has your information. However, for those still unsure whether they qualify or wondering if they missed a payment, here’s how to check and claim what you’re owed.
Why Am I Owed Stimulus Money?
The stimulus checks—officially known as Economic Impact Payments (EIP)—were designed to provide financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you didn’t receive your full third stimulus payment in 2021, you might be eligible for the Recovery Rebate Credit. This credit can be claimed on your 2021 tax return if you meet the eligibility requirements, such as income thresholds and filing status.
Steps to Track and Claim Forgotten Stimulus Checks
- Check Your IRS Online Account:
Log in to your IRS online account to see how much you received for the first, second, and third stimulus payments. Navigate to the “Tax Records” section to confirm your payment history. - Review Official IRS Notices:
The IRS sent out important letters and notices that can help you track your payments:- Notice 1444: For the first stimulus payment
- Notice 1444-B: For the second stimulus payment
- Notice 1444-C: For the third stimulus payment
- Letter 6475: Sent in early 2022, confirming the total of your third payment
If you kept these documents, they can be useful for filing or amending your 2021 tax return.
- File Your 2021 Tax Return (If You Haven’t Already):
Even if you don’t typically file taxes, submitting a 2021 federal tax return is key to claiming any missing stimulus payments through the Recovery Rebate Credit. Make sure to include accurate information about the payments you did receive to avoid processing delays. - Request a Payment Trace if Necessary:
If the IRS claims your payment was issued but you haven’t received it, you can initiate a payment trace:- Call the IRS at 800-919-9835 to start the trace.
- Alternatively, fill out and submit Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund) to the IRS. Be sure to write “EIP1,” “EIP2,” or “EIP3” at the top of the form, depending on which payment you are tracing.
Beware of Stimulus Check Scams
Recently, false claims about new stimulus payments have been circulating on social media. The IRS has confirmed that there are no additional rounds of stimulus checks planned. If you see messages suggesting otherwise, be cautious and verify the information through official IRS channels.
Quick Tips to Get Your Stimulus Money:
- Log in to your IRS account and double-check your payment history.
- File a 2021 tax return if you haven’t already done so.
- Contact the IRS and request a payment trace if needed.
- Avoid misinformation by relying on official IRS announcements.
Final Thoughts
Millions of Americans may still be eligible for missing stimulus checks, but time is running out. The deadline to file your 2021 tax return and claim any missed payments is April 15, 2025. By following these steps, you can ensure you’re not leaving any money on the table.
